My Two Sweats: Pea Protein
Pea protein? We're all accustomed to whey, soy, and old-fashioned animal protein (cheeseburgers), but what's the deal with this new nutritional advancement that's taking health-nuts and Whole Foodies by storm. What is pea protein? Well, exactly what it sounds like, protein that has been extracted from peas. This is great for people who struggle with dietary constraints such as lactose intolerance, who want a protein powder for exercise supplement. Still, just because pea protein is vegan, soy, and gluten free, is it the best protein for you to supplement your strenuous workouts with? Let's find out:
The Pros of Pea Protein
The basic standards of nutrition today: dairy, soy, and gluten free. That's big, because we are becoming increasingly particular about what we consume, and these expecatations are all met with pea protein.
Another pro is that pea protein packs roughly 25 grams of protein per serving (30 gram scoop). This is just as much if not more protein than your typical whey protein, and far more holistic.
Arginine, arginine, arginine. I repeat 3 times, because pea protein has 3 times as much of this natural growth hormone stimulant than whey does. This means you can convert pea protein into some serious muscle gains fellas!
The Cons of Pea Protein
Pea protein isn't a complete protein. It is a great source of protein, but not a complete one. What this means is that while it contains the broad spectrum of essential amino acids, it is devoid of certain amino acids that are necessary for (low in cystine, and methionine). So, while pea protein can be a major part of your protein intake, it shouldn't be the sole or primary source.
Lacks fatty acids. This is a minor issue, though. If you are using pea protein as a supplement to your workouts, just add something that contains these necessary fatty acids: a handful of almonds and cashews, or some fish oil. There you go, problem solved.
The last downside is that this protein, when in powder form, is often very chalky. If you've been working out and using protein powders, you've likely faced this problem before. The easiest solve to this problem is to make your shakes in a good blender, with plenty of fluids (water, almond milk, etc.).
My Two Sweats:
While there are a few downsides to pea protein, I think it's a game-changer in the fitness world. We now have a healthier alternative to whey and dairy based proteins (better than soy). If you already use whey, or another type of supplement, and it's working for you, then keep at it! However, if you find the whey makes you feel weighed down (pun intended, always), probably due to the dairy, then switch it up, give pea protein a shot!